The streets of Rome witnessed violent clashes late Wednesday night as a group of 70 Real Sociedad fans were attacked by armed Lazio ultras ahead of their Europa League match. The incident unfolded in the Monte district, leaving three Sociedad supporters with serious stab wounds and escalating tensions between the fan bases.
Details of the Incident
According to Italian police, the violence erupted around 10 PM local time when Lazio ultras, dressed in black and wearing masks, ambushed Real Sociedad supporters at a local bar. The attackers hurled smoke bombs, firecrackers, and sharp objects, shouting threats like, “We will kill you all.”
The attack, described as an ambush rather than a prearranged clash, saw the Spanish fans outnumbered and forced to flee. Video footage shared on social media platform X captured the chaotic scenes, showing chairs, tables, and other objects being thrown during the melee.
Casualties and Arrests
The violent altercation resulted in several injuries, including three Sociedad fans who sustained serious stab wounds. Local authorities confiscated an array of weapons, including knives, iron rods, and hammers, used during the attack.
Residents in the area alerted police, who intervened to disperse the crowd and restore order. Several individuals involved in the violence were arrested, and authorities are reviewing surveillance footage to identify additional perpetrators.
Reactions and Context
The incident has drawn significant attention, given the notorious reputation of Lazio’s ultras, some of whom have links to far-right groups. Initial reports suggested the possibility of a prearranged fight between the two fan groups, but this theory was dismissed as it became clear that the attack was a planned ambush.
Real Sociedad fans were reportedly in Rome to support their team in Thursday’s Europa League match against Lazio at the Stadio Olimpico. The Basque club currently sits 12th in the league standings, while Lazio tops the group stage table.
Safety Concerns for Fans
This violent episode raises fresh concerns about fan safety in European competitions, particularly in high-risk fixtures involving clubs with ultra factions. Authorities have vowed to take stricter measures to prevent similar incidents in the future, but the event highlights the ongoing challenges of managing football-related violence.
Conclusion
The ambush in Rome serves as a grim reminder of the darker side of football culture, where rivalries sometimes spill over into dangerous and violent confrontations. As investigations continue, both clubs and governing bodies will need to address the broader issue of fan violence to ensure the safety of supporters at future matches.
